Last Name Schacher

The last name "Schacher" is of German origin. It is derived from the Middle High German word "schach," meaning "chess." In medieval times, it was a nickname for someone who was good at playing chess or who worked as a chess player. Over time, this nickname evolved into a surname that was passed down through generations. Today, the last name "Schacher" is still found in Germany and other German-speaking countries.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Schacher

The meaning and origin of the last name Schacher

Schacher is a surname of German origin, derived from the Middle High German word "schachen" or "schache," meaning "to pawn" or "to mortgage." It is believed to have originally been an occupational surname for someone who worked in the field of finance or lending, particularly as a moneylender or pawnbroker. Alternatively, it could have been a nickname for someone who made frequent use of pawning or mortgaging as a means of financial transactions. The surname Schacher can be found primarily in areas with a strong German influence such as Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. Over time, variations in spelling may have occurred as the name spread to different regions and families, leading to the diverse forms of the surname that exist today.

Geographical distribution of the last name Schacher

The name Schacher is mainly common in Germany, especially in the Baden-Württemberg region. It is also present in Switzerland, notably in the cantons of Zurich and Saint Gallen. A small Schacher community also exists in the United States, mainly in the states of Wisconsin, Michigan and Illinois. This name is also found in Austria, particularly in the Vienna region. Despite its relative scarcity, the family name Schacher has a long history and a certain reputation in the German-speaking regions. It is often associated with families of German or Swiss origin, and can be traced back centuries in some cases.

Variants and spellings of the last name Schacher

Variations and spellings of the last name Schacher may include Schächer, Schaecher, Schaeker, Shaker, Shakher, Shachir, and Shachar. These variations may stem from different regions or countries where the name has originated or been anglicized over time. The umlaut over the "a" in Schächer indicates a more German or Swiss influence, while variations such as Shaker or Shakher may suggest a Middle Eastern or Indian background. The spelling of surnames can often be fluid and subject to change based on pronunciation, migration patterns, and personal preferences. Regardless of the spelling or variation, the name Schacher likely shares a common ancestry and history among individuals bearing the surname.

Famous people with the last name Schacher

Michael Schacher is a well-known figure in the world of dance and choreography, having worked with renowned artists such as Beyoncé and Justin Timberlake. He is best known for his innovative and dynamic choreography that has earned him multiple awards and recognition in the industry. Another famous personality with the last name Schacher is Matthias Jabs, the lead guitarist of the iconic rock band Scorpions. Known for his incredible guitar skills and unforgettable solos, Jabs has been a key member of the band since the 1970s and has contributed to their success with hit songs such as "Rock You Like a Hurricane" and "Wind of Change." These two talented individuals have made a significant impact in their respective fields and continue to be celebrated for their contributions to the arts.

Genealogical research on the last name Schacher

Genealogical research on the name Schacher dates back to the German origin of this name. According to historical records and documents, the name Schacher is often associated with regions such as Bavaria and Saarland in Germany. The first traces of this family name date back to the Middle Ages, where it was frequently carried by individuals belonging to noble families or landowners. Over the centuries, the name Schacher has spread to other European countries and has been adapted according to local languages. This genealogical research can help trace the family origins, migrations and historical ties of people with the Schacher surname.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Schacher"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 11 April 2025

Share the origin of your last name with your friends